Necessary Tools
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Cutting board & knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even Italian sausage.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Pasta Variations: Try fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
- More Veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms and asparagus, cooking until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked chicken and pasta back to the skillet, tossing until evenly coated in the sauce.
6. Season and Serve
Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Slice chicken evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
- Avoid Overcooking: Add asparagus towards the end of cooking to keep it crisp.
- Sauce Consistency: Simmer until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQs
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a little flour or cornstarch.
2. What’s the best way to reheat without drying out?
Reheat on low heat with extra broth or cream to keep it creamy.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap chicken for extra mushrooms or chickpeas.
4. What pasta shape works best?
Penne holds the sauce well, but fettuccine or rotini are great alternatives.
5. Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort meal, combining rich flavors with fresh ingredients. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish will impress every time. Try it today and experience restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen!
